Hot Stocks to Watch: 5 Companies That Could Cash in on Android Malware

Report says 99% of mobile malware attacks target Android devices

Hot Stocks to Watch: Apple (AAPL)

Developers and consumers have criticized Apple (AAPL) for its “walled garden” approach to iOS. The locked-down mobile operating system keeps users from tinkering with their devices at anything but a superficial level, keeps key processes away from third-party app developers, can make it difficult for developers to get apps approved and makes it virtually impossible for iPhone and iPad owners to install apps outside of those offered through Apple’s iTunes.

But that makes iOS a tougher nut to crack if you’re up to no good — and that’s why Schiller was tweeting about Android malware vulnerabilities.

Of course, Apple doubters will point out that the relatively low numbers of iOS devices in circulation are one reason hackers aren’t targeting Apple products with the same persistence. But does that matter?

The iPhone and iPad offer the wealth of apps that BlackBerry (BBRY) and Microsoft’s (MSFT) Windows lack, along with hardware design that (most) people still love, a massive accessories ecosystem and no cyber criminal target on their backs.

Whatever the reason — tougher security or a smaller target — Apple could back some of its market share if Android malware causes buyers to think twice about an Android smartphone or tablet. The end result? AAPL rounds out of list of hot stocks to watch if Android malware becomes an even bigger issue.

As of this writing, Brad Moon did not hold a position in any of the aforementioned securities.